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Loogootee Councilman Refuses To Resign

(LOOGOOTEE) - A Loogootee City Councilman faces felony charges in Dubois County but refuses to resign from office.

Loogootee City Councilman John Fraley and his step-son, Dustin Campbell, were arrested on November 19th by Jasper Police on a charge of theft.

Fraley is also a long-time city employee with the street department. According to a press release, Fraley and Campbell are alleged to have stolen several items from property owned by Randy Judy, on Third Avenue in Jasper.

Judy reported the thefts which included water heaters, air conditioners and copper tubing. Police sat both men admitted taking the items.

Farley says he is innocent and refuses to resign his seat on the council.

City attorney Mark Jones says if Farley is convicted of the crime, Indiana law requires Farley be removed from his elected office.

The Loogootee Board of Public Works and Safety did suspend Fraley for five days without pay and demoted him from a backhoe laborer to step 3 in the department, which includes a reduction in pay.

Mayor Noel Harty says no further action will be taken until the legal case is resolved.

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